UK’s next Paris pledge should commit to ‘81% emissions cut by 2035′
A Call to Action
As the UK prepares to make its next Paris Agreement commitment, it is clear that a significant increase in ambition is necessary to meet the growing crisis of climate change. The UK’s current target of a 68% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 is insufficient, and the Government must now commit to a more ambitious goal of at least an 81% cut by 2035.
Scientific Imperative
The latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report made it clear that the world has only 12 years to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels and avoid the most catastrophic impacts of climate change. The UK’s current target is not aligned with this goal, and the country must do its part to avoid the worst effects of climate change.
Why 81%? Why 2035?
The 81% target is based on the most recent climate science and the UK’s current emissions profile. It is a realistic and achievable goal, and it would put the UK on track to meet the 1.5°C target. The 2035 deadline is critical, as it gives the country time to implement the necessary policies and technologies to achieve the target.
What does this mean in practice?
An 81% reduction in emissions by 2035 means:
* A significant phase-out of fossil fuels, with a focus on renewable energy sources
* A comprehensive retrofitting of existing buildings and infrastructure
* Increased efforts to reduce waste and emissions from agriculture and transportation
* Investment in carbon capture and storage technology
Ambition Must be Matched by Action
The next Paris pledge must be matched with immediate and decisive action. This includes:
* A clear plan for the Just Transition, ensuring that workers and communities are supported throughout the transition to a low-carbon economy
* Increased investment in research and development to drive innovation and reduce costs
* International cooperation to create a global carbon market and ensure a level playing field
Conclusion
The UK’s next Paris pledge must be a turning point in the country’s response to climate change. The science is clear, the urgency is palpable, and the UK has a critical role to play in avoiding the worst effects of climate change. The country must commit to a 81% reduction in emissions by 2035, backed up by concrete action and a clear plan for a Just Transition.
FAQs
* Q: Why is an 81% reduction in emissions by 2035 necessary?
A: The latest IPCC report shows that the world has only 12 years to limit global warming to 1.5°C. An 81% reduction in emissions by 2035 would put the UK on track to meet this goal.
* Q: Why 2035 and not 2040 or 2050?
A: 2035 is a critical deadline, as it gives the UK time to implement the necessary policies and technologies to achieve the 81% target. Beyond 2035, the remaining carbon budget would be too small, and the likelihood of catastrophic climate change would increase.
* Q: What are the benefits of an 81% reduction in emissions?
A: Reducing emissions by 81% would improve public health, create jobs in the low-carbon economy, and ensure the UK remains a leader in the global response to climate change.
